Chinese Man Caught With Rhino Horns Worth Over US$240K In Harare Bust
A Chinese national was arrested in Harare after being found with rhino horns and ivory worth over a quarter of a million US dollars.
Rhino Horns Found Shrink-Wrapped
Police arrested 57-year-old Cong Yanzhong on 16 July 2025 after receiving a tip-off about suspected illegal wildlife trafficking. He was apprehended by detectives from the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) at his residence in Harare.
During the raid, officers allegedly discovered three rhinoceros horns shrink-wrapped and concealed within the premises.
“The three rhino horns weighed 7.70 kilograms and have an estimated street value of US$240,000 (approx. R4,388,000),” said the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) in a statement dated 18 July 2025.
The NPAZ added that the suspect could not produce any permits authorising possession of the horns.
Over 36kg Of Ivory Hidden In Sacks
Alongside the rhino horns, authorities say they uncovered a further consignment of unmarked ivory.
“Four pieces of raw ivory, weighing 36.15 kilograms and valued at US$6,145.50 (approx. R112,300), were also found. The ivory was hidden in sacks near a weighing scale,” the NPAZ stated.
The total estimated value of the seized wildlife products stands at US$246,145.50 (approx. R4,500,300).
The authorities are treating the matter with urgency due to the grave impact such crimes have on endangered species and Zimbabwe’s biodiversity.
Accused Remains In Custody
The State is strongly opposing bail. Cong Yanzhong has since been referred to the fast-track trial court and is expected to appear in court on 22 July 2025.
“The accused is facing serious charges under Zimbabwe’s wildlife laws. He is not being released on bail at this stage,” the NPAZ confirmed.
Rhino horns are among the most valuable wildlife products on the black market, fuelling poaching in national parks and conservation areas across Southern Africa. Zimbabwean authorities continue to clamp down on illegal wildlife trade through coordinated law enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
“Illegal possession and trafficking of trophies of endangered species, such as rhino horns and ivory, pose a grave threat to Zimbabwe’s biodiversity,” the NPAZ warned.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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